5 New Signings To Watch In The PRO12 This Season

Not long to go now.

The new PRO12 season is just around the corner, and while we’re not quite sure if it’s going to be expanded to a 14 team competition or not, we’ve got confirmation on some top names set to ply their trade in the competition this season.

Every club has strengthened ahead of the campaign, but which clubs have done the best business? Here’s a list of 5 new signings to watch this coming season.

James Lowe – Chiefs to Leinster

The New Zealander has been one of the standout players in Super Rugby this season. At just 25, it was surprising to see New Zealand rugby let him go, but the Chiefs loss is Leinster’s gain. A brilliant attacker, with an eye for the try-line, Lowe will even more flair to an already exciting Leinster backline.

Robbie Fruean – Bath to Edinburgh

Never really got off the ground at Bath due to a number of niggling injuries, but a serious talent when he gets going. If he can get a run of games together he could prove to be an excellent signing for new boss Richard Cockerill. We saw some glimpses at the end of last season of what the centre is capable of.

JJ Hanrahan – Northampton to Munster

The Irishman is returning home after a two-year spell in England that never really got off the ground. Hanrahan was playing the best rugby of his career when he left and if he pick up where he left off, he’ll be an excellent signing for the Irish province. It will be interesting to see where Munster deploy him, whether it be at 10 or 12.

Huw Jones – Stormers to Glasgow

The Scottish centre has been hugely impressive for the national team and bringing him home was a smart move. Bringing him into an already exciting Glasgow backline will be huge. One to watch this season no doubt.

Marty Banks – Highlanders to Treviso

One of the most underrated players in Super Rugby, the New Zealander is a huge signing for Treviso. A very clever ten that will bring some much needed experience and organisation to the Italian side.